Father’s Day looks a little different to every dad, and for Lee Thompson, Assembly Label’s CEO, this year is sure to be one to remember. Having recently become a dad to his son Tully, Lee has been enjoying a lot of firsts. While his day-to-day hasn’t changed as much as some might expect, Lee is relishing in the faster pace of life, while still making sure he leans into the slower moments.
With plans to take some belated parental leave in France with his family, we caught up with Lee in his Tamarama home ahead of their getaway to talk more about his journey into fatherhood, his favourite ways to spend time with Tully, and how they’ll be spending Father’s Day in France.
You recently became a father for the first time. What’s something unexpected you've learned about yourself since becoming a dad? Hmm unexpected… time is something that you can have a healthy boundary with.
In what ways has your day-to-day life changed? I think people close to me would say I’ve learned to be a lot more efficient with how I manage my time. I need to get on with it and quickly, which I’m enjoying.
Has becoming a father shifted the way you think about work–life balance? Not particularly, but it’s made me re-prioritise how the time is allocated. Big fan of the book Ikigai – helps frame my perspective with work, life, and balance.
How has fatherhood influenced the way you view your own father? Has your relationship changed at all? No, I’m so bloody lucky, but this experience has only made me appreciate my father more. It hasn’t changed our relationship – but I’m spending more time asking for his stories and experiences to draw from.
And what’s something your father taught you that you’ll teach your children? Believe in people – give a lot of love.
What’s your favourite thing to do with Tully at the moment? The obvious answer is being with him in water, splashing around in a pool for the first time the past week – but truly the funniest is having a meal and watching him eat bread. He’s a bread monster. Not sure if it’s the teething, but far out this little guy can devour some bread.
How will you be spending this Father’s Day? Our little family are taking a delayed parental leave holiday to spend a month in France – I think we’ll be in Cassis on Father’s’ Day, which is surreal. My own parents will also spend a couple of weeks with us in Biarritz – creating these lasting memories is something we’ll cherish forever.
What’s something you would tell your younger self in preparation for parenthood? I would tell myself that you’ve loved the experience. Look forward to it.
What advice would you give to other first-time dads this Father’s Day? To be fair, I wouldn’t give advice, we’re taking it day by day – do whatever feels right for you and your family.
